I Kept Back Nothing

“And when they were come to him, he said unto them, Ye know, from the first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at all seasons, Serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews: And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publickly, and from house to house, Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.” Acts 20:18-21

As Paul was on his way to Jerusalem for what would be his last visit there, he passed close enough to the city of Ephesus to send a message to the leaders of the church there asking them to come and meet with him. He wanted to encourage them to continue faithfully in the work that had begun in Ephesus when he had preached there the first time. Paul reminded them of the work he had done in Ephesus, and particularly that he had given everything he had to spreading the gospel and teaching the Word of God while he was with them. Paul said, “I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you.” Paul was serious about his service to the Lord. He taught in public places and in private homes. He preached the truth without hesitation and did everything that he could to help the people there to grow in grace. Paul invested his own labor and finances into the work without reserve. After reading Paul’s words to these church leaders, we are left with this question: are we giving our best in our service to God, or are we holding something back?